The deal, terms of which were not disclosed, gives Sae-A Trading control of Swisstex El Salvador and Unique El Salvador. These facilities specialise in knitting, dyeing and finishing with advanced automated technology and environmentally sustainable processes.

Around 300 of Swisstex’s 500 employees are based in El Salvador, with the remainder in Los Angeles, where operations will continue independently.

Discover B2B Marketing That Performs

Combine business intelligence and editorial excellence to reach engaged professionals across 36 leading media platforms.

Find out more

Sae-A Trading CEO James Ha said the acquisition marks a “milestone” in the company’s global expansion. “By integrating Swisstex’s advanced production capabilities, we will better meet customer demand for innovative, high-quality apparel,” he added.

The South Korea-based apparel giant plans to invest further in technology, automation and AI to scale production and increase efficiency.

Keith Dartley, president of Swisstex Direct said Sae-A’s values and resources make it an “ideal partner” to grow the business and address future opportunities.

Swisstex, founded in 1996, is recognised for its sustainable wet processing expertise and speciality fabric finishes, including moisture management, UV resistance, and antimicrobial treatments. Its management team will remain in place in both the US and El Salvador to ensure continuity.

GlobalData Strategic Intelligence

US Tariffs are shifting - will you react or anticipate?

Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis.

By GlobalData

The deal builds on Sae-A’s acquisition of sportswear manufacturer Tegra in 2024, which expanded its footprint across the US, Honduras and El Salvador. The company, founded in 1986, operates a vertically integrated global supply chain with facilities across North and Central America, as well as Vietnam and Indonesia.

In August, Just Style sat down with Sae-A Trading’s chief sales officer, Saila Kim, who shared how the company’s founding principles of innovation, community engagement, and workplace safety have evolved into a robust ESG-driven strategy.

Just Style Excellence Awards - The Benefits of Entering

Gain the recognition you deserve! The Just Style Excellence Awards celebrate innovation, leadership, and impact. By entering, you showcase your achievements, elevate your industry profile, and position yourself among top leaders driving apparel and textile industry advancements. Don’t miss your chance to stand out—submit your entry today!

Nominate Now